On November 9, 2017, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the IoT Acceleration Lab and the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) started calling for new projects for the fifth IoT Lab Selection as a public-private joint effort for supporting outstanding IoT projects.

1. Outline

With the advent of IoT, big data and AI, industries and society are seeing significant changes all over the world. In response to this situation, it is necessary for Japan, as well as other countries, to create new IoT business models, uncover and develop IoT platform creators, and use them as a driving force for new growth.

To achieve the goals, the IoT Acceleration Lab will collaborate with government-related organizations, financial institutions, venture capital businesses and other entities, and provide financial and mentoring support, as well as support for regulatory reforms and standardization, to outstanding IoT projects selected from the viewpoint of growth potential, leadership, scalability （openness） and commitment to society.

2. Targets for support

Projects involving business utilizing IoT, big data and AI, including the development of software, hardware prototypes, R&D and demonstrations thereof, have been targets for consideration. Beginning with this call, METI, the IoT Acceleration Lab and NEDO decided to add two new categories: general and regional* categories.

*Note：Details of the regional category
METI, the IoT Acceleration Lab and NEDO will call for projects utilizing IoT, big data and AI which contribute to solutions of regionally-unique challenges and revitalization of regional economies. Although applicants are encouraged to utilize IoT in overcoming regional challenges, for e.g., natural disasters, depopulation, and overpopulation, or those integrating traditional industries with IoT, applicant eligibility with not be limited to such projects.

3. Invitation period

From November 9 (Thur.) to 12:00 p.m., December 15 (Fri.), 2017

4. Entitled applicants

Individuals, companies and associations, including teams in companies or associations

5. Explanatory meeting on the call

METI, the IoT Acceleration Lab and NEDO will hold an explanatory meeting on the call. If you wish to attend the meeting, visit the website below and fill out the registration form by November 15 （Wed.）, 2017. Please note that participants will be selected by lottery if the number of applicants exceeds the maximum capacity of the venue.